Gasthof zum Kaiser Friedrich
Retailer / private label
UnclaimedBremen's oldest inn, serving traditional German and North German cuisine in a historic baroque building since 1889.
Last updated September 28, 2026
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Overview
The Gasthof zum Kaiser Friedrich is a historic inn and restaurant located in the Schnoorviertel of Bremen, Germany. It is recognized as the oldest inn in Bremen, operating since 1889, and is housed in a listed baroque building constructed around 1630. The inn is named after Emperor Frederick III, the '99-day Emperor,' and has been a significant part of Bremen's city history and cultural heritage. The restaurant serves traditional German and North German cuisine, with a menu that includes local specialties such as Knipp and Labskaus, as well as fish and meat dishes. It is particularly famous for its Bratkartoffeln (fried potatoes), which are considered the best in Bremen. A changing daily lunch menu is offered from Tuesday to Friday. In the summer months, outdoor seating is available in the Schnoor district. The Gasthof has a long tradition of hosting regulars' tables (Stammtische), with over 80 active groups, including former senators who have met there since 1951, skat players, market traders, and showmen. It has also been a meeting place for politicians, businessmen, and tourists. The inn's interior has remained largely unchanged for decades, preserving its historic charm. Since 1992, the inn was run by Curt-Uwe Richter, a former sailor and cook, who maintained its traditions for 31 years. In 2023, he handed over the Gasthof to the Dolff family, who continue to operate it with dedication, preserving its character and ensuring it remains a place where stories come alive. The building itself is a protected monument, with a depiction of Emperor Frederick III on horseback on its gable front.
History
The Gasthof zum Kaiser Friedrich is located in the Schnoorviertel of Bremen, at the corner of Lange Wieren and Am Landherrnamt streets. The building was constructed around 1630 in the baroque style and has been renovated several times, notably in 1750, 1962, and 1971. It has been a protected monument since 1973. The ground floor houses the restaurant, while the upper floors contain apartments. The gable front features a depiction of Emperor Frederick III on horseback. The inn itself has operated since 1889, making it the oldest inn in Bremen. It is named after Emperor Frederick III of Prussia, the '99-day Emperor,' who reigned for only 99 days in 1888 before his death. The inn has been a significant part of Bremen's city history and is considered a cultural heritage site. Its interior has remained largely unchanged for decades, and it has been run in the same tradition with a consistent regular clientele, regardless of the operator. Over the years, it has served as a meeting place for political and business discussions in small circles and was a regular haunt for some Bremen mayors and senators. Since 1951, former senators (Altsenatoren) have held their regulars' table at the inn, and they are still active. Other regular groups include skat players, market traders, and Bremen showmen. Currently, the inn hosts over 80 active regulars' tables, some meeting monthly and others weekly. The inn also hosts a podcast by the Weser Kurier called 'Hinten Links im Kaiser Friedrich.' From 1992 to 2023, the inn was run by Curt-Uwe Richter, a former sailor and cook, who maintained its traditions for 31 years. In 2023, he handed over the Gasthof to the Dolff family, who continue to operate it with dedication, preserving its charming character and ensuring it remains a place where stories come alive. The team is committed to making every guest feel comfortable.
- 2023
Curt-Uwe Richter hands over the inn to the Dolff family.
- 1992
Curt-Uwe Richter takes over as innkeeper.
- 1973
Building placed under monument protection.
- 1971
Further renovation.
- 1962
Renovation of the building.
- 1951
Altsenatoren (former senators) establish their regulars' table.
- 1889
Inn begins operating as Gasthof zum Kaiser Friedrich.
- 1750
First major renovation.
- 1630
Building constructed in baroque style.
Products and positioning
Historic inn and restaurant offering traditional German and North German cuisine in a landmark building, known for its unchanged interior and regulars' tables.
Bratkartoffeln
Fried potatoes, considered the best in Bremen.
Knipp
A local North German specialty.
Labskaus
A traditional North German dish.
Daily lunch menu
Changing lunch menu offered Tuesday to Friday.
Sources4 sources
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